PANGLAO OFFICIALS ORDER REMOVAL OF UNAUTHORIZED DIVING PLATFORMS
Panglao town officials have moved to remove unauthorized floating platforms at a popular diving site, citing environmental concerns and lack of permits.
The Sangguniang Bayan of Panglao unanimously passed Resolution No. 360 on November 11, requesting Mayor Edgardo F. Arcay to order the removal of floating platforms installed at Barangay Tangnan.
The platforms, operated by a dive center in Tangnan, were installed without securing required permits, including the Miscellaneous Lease Agreement and Foreshore Lease Agreement from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, according to the resolution.
Officials expressed worries about potential ecological damage to the marine habitat, which attracts both local and international divers.
The resolution cited risks of coral damage from low-tide impact and sunlight obstruction that could affect marine biodiversity.
Vice Mayor Noel E. Hormachuelos authored the resolution, which was sponsored by Councilor Benedict C. Alcala, citing the municipality’s commitment to preserving its coastal and marine resources for future generations.
The diving site in question is considered one of Panglao’s treasured marine habitats, a major attraction in this tourism-dependent municipality in Bohol province.
